You’d be hardpressed to find a more dramatic home transformation than Christi and Barrett’s full-house renovation. While visiting Kristen and Matt’s bungalow in Charlotte, NC, we learned that their friends had just completed an extensive remodel, so we made a point to stop by and tour this striking update as well.
Here the happy couple poses on their refreshed front porch with their newborn. They were kind and comfortable letting us photograph their home — especially since Christi is an enthusiastic reader of design blogs and shares a passion for thoughtful, liveable style.
To appreciate the scope of the update, here’s the house before the renovation.
And after the renovation — the new porch and facade create a welcoming curb appeal that pairs beautifully with future landscaping plans. Shrubs, perennials and foundation plantings will only enhance the new architecture.
The owners added a full second floor to house a guest bedroom, a nursery and an additional full bathroom. Inside, the layout flows with intentional details and a consistent palette of warm neutrals, natural wood and contrasting dark accents. Take off your shoes and stay a while.
The entryway opens into a living area anchored by a fireplace and built-in bookcases. A soft green accent wall behind the shelves brings depth and warmth, while the white mantle and slate surround create a refined focal point. The ebony hardwood floors add contrast and polish throughout the main level.
The dining room features a striking black chandelier that elevates the space. Although many belongings were stored off-site during construction — and one storage unit was later burglarized — the chandelier survived intact. The homeowners are still waiting on a larger dining table, but the current setup, with black chairs and long white curtains, already reads elegant and intentional.
The kitchen is a highlight: vintage-inspired pendant lights hover above a marble-topped island with simple white stools, and a stainless hood provides a professional touch. Glossy marble counters and pared-back cabinetry create a timeless, approachable aesthetic.
The practical and stylish pull-down faucet was one of Barrett’s contributions — a small but impactful upgrade that improves daily function without compromising the kitchen’s clean lines.
The living area adjacent to the kitchen feels restful and roomy. A dramatic oversized pendant and a repainted armoire provide visual interest, while plush seating and French doors that open to a small balcony make the space ideal for relaxing or entertaining.
Nearby, a compact mudroom offers clever storage: a frosted door with a decal, a tucked-away washer and dryer, and upper cabinets to corral seasonal items. It’s a well-considered transition zone between the outdoors and the main living spaces.
The main-floor bedroom is bright and airy with flowing curtains that soften the windows. A creative headboard repurposes the top of an old dining table: the deep wood was given a chic zebra-like effect with hand-drawn black stripes, creating a custom focal point that catches the light.
The bathroom reads like a small spa, with a marble-topped double vanity and a soaking tub capped by a delicate chandelier. These luxe touches feel both glamorous and inviting in daily life.
Upstairs, the nursery was designed before the baby’s gender was known, resulting in a fresh green-and-yellow palette that feels modern and cheerful. Chevron-patterned valances, floor pillows and framed fabric scraps create playful yet cohesive décor, and a repurposed wrought-iron chandelier spray-painted white adds a soft finishing touch.
Christi and Barrett’s renovation balances smart design choices with functional updates, resulting in a home that feels polished, lived-in and inviting. Thanks to the homeowners for letting us tour their beautiful remodel — we enjoyed every room and look forward to sharing more inspiring before-and-after transformations soon.